Translation guide
The English phrase "great virtue" refers to an outstanding moral quality or excellence. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through several terms that emphasize different aspects of virtue, such as supreme morality, benevolence, or outstanding character. The most common and versatile term is 大徳 (daitoku), which directly translates to "great virtue" and is used in both everyday and philosophical contexts.
Expressing the idea of a person's or action's supreme moral quality, often in a general or philosophical sense.
The most direct and common translation for "great virtue." It refers to a person of high moral character or the virtue itself. Suitable for both formal and informal contexts.
He is a person of great virtue.
Accumulating great virtue is the purpose of life.
Means "virtue" in a general sense, often used for moral excellence. When combined with adjectives like 偉大な (great), it can convey "great virtue." More common in everyday language than 大徳.
Honesty is a great virtue.
Literally "high virtue," used to describe someone of lofty moral character. More literary and less common in daily speech.
She is respected as a person of great virtue.
Referring to the highest virtue in philosophical or religious contexts, especially Confucian or Buddhist teachings.
In Confucianism, 仁 (jin) is the supreme virtue of benevolence, love, and humaneness. It is often considered the greatest virtue. Use in philosophical or ethical discussions.
Benevolence is the highest virtue in Confucianism.
A Buddhist term meaning "great compassion and mercy," often considered a great virtue of Buddhas and bodhisattvas. Used in religious contexts.
Referring to a person who embodies great moral qualities.
A sage or saint, a person of perfect virtue. Commonly used to describe historical or religious figures of great moral stature.
Confucius is regarded as a sage (person of great virtue).
A person of noble character and virtue, often used in Confucian contexts. Can be translated as "gentleman" or "superior person."
大徳 (daitoku) specifically means "great virtue" and is often used in formal or philosophical contexts. 美徳 (bitoku) means "virtue" in general and is more common in everyday language. To express "great virtue" with 美徳, you need to add an adjective like 偉大な (idai na, great).
Directly translating "great virtue" as 大きい美徳 (ōkii bitoku) is unnatural. Use 大徳 or 偉大な美徳 instead.
The Buddha's great compassion is immeasurable.
He is a true gentleman of great virtue.